I read a book called Dealing with Back Pain that in a nutshell theorised that we become programmed to expect pain after once already having experienced pain performing a given task (some of mine being gardening,walking the dog,house cleaning,etc).It goes on to say the body tenses up around the expected pain site and general area as a very natural protective measure.I have examined this closely and find it does occur with most every activity I undertake.The expectation of pain,before I even begin a simple task,was enough to stop me in my tracks.My mind,on the one hand,wants me to stop(before i begin!) but on the other,being a driven person I feel compelled to get on with things.This is where the fun begins.Once the decision is made to start,the mind clicks up a gear and has me concentrating so hard I sub-consciously switch to protective mode and get all tensed up.On completion of said task I'm usually a ball of knots and left wondering why and or if it was all worth it.But now I understand this process I can, by close scrutiny,head off the tension build up (by taking regular breaks and or consciously telling myself to relax those shoulder,neck,back muscles-what ever is most engaged).This has helped me tremendously.It seems to reconcile the divide between the agile mind and not so agile AS body.
Take care you guys,
Kenny.
From Down Under
